Mouthwash test may spot hidden throat cancer

NCT ID NCT05524025

Completed Diagnosis Sponsor: Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a new mouthwash-based DNA test to see if it can find HPV in saliva, which might help detect HPV-related throat cancer early. Researchers compared results from 360 people — some with throat cancer and some without. The goal was to see how accurate the test is at telling the two groups apart.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this test could offer a simple, non-invasive way to screen for HPV-related throat cancer, potentially catching it earlier.
What could go wrong: This is a completed study that only measured how often the test finds HPV DNA in people with and without cancer. It does not prove the test can prevent or treat cancer, and more research is needed to confirm its real-world usefulness.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

human papilloma virus infection human papillomavirus-related squamous cell carcinoma oropharynx squamous cell carcinoma

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

HPV INFECTION HPV-POSITIVE OROPHARYNGEAL SQUAMOUS CELL CARCINOMA

Contacts and locations

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Locations

Brigham & Woman's Hospital

Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States
Dana Farber Cancer Institute

Boston, Massachusetts, 02115, United States

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